Every single person I have ever talked to that’s owned a Versys 650 has said the same thing in that it stacks up as one of if not their favourite bike of all time.
@@Dailycozwerks Thanks! What is the insurance like on one of those? I'm hoping to buy an older 09 or something close. How much maintenance are you usually doing on your Versys each month and how much average?
Mine is a 2009 so insurance is next to nothing. Something like $150 a year for full coverage. Maintenance has honestly just been oil changes and chain cleanings/adjustments which I do myself so almost no cost there either.
I love my 08, but especially after the major modifications, I built brackets and put hard bags from a Harley Electra glide as to have storage, also Harley handlebars so it feels more like a cruiser, also modified the back frame and lowered the seat level and actually sit on a seat from a China four wheeler which fit perfectly and I can flat foot it no matter what the suspension is set at, a few LED lights all over it, and it is an amazing bike, all the power I need and I have ridden larger bikes. The one thing I love about it, is it is extremely dependable. The only thing that I don't like, is it is a tad windy because of the front fairing designs, of course I have an aftermarket windshield as well so that maybe it, I have ridden it through major thunderstorms with wind gusts of 50 to 60 miles an hour and it was stable, and all around great bike. Thank you for your review you did a great job!
i bought this bike this spring without any research on it. i was set on an er6n, but i found this at a decent price and since i''m a tall guy, i said why not. i love it and i don't feel like i should change it any time soon.now that i search for videos about it, i could't be any happier. everybody says that it's awesome and flexible. big love for versys.
This video sir helped me decide to put a deposit TODAY on a 2010 model black 650 Versys as i was set to get a Vstrom from the start...Im glad i settled for the Versys instead as the Strom doesnt have as good looks in my opinion..but im biased i guess..Cheers bro for the good work..Keep em coming..
@@jayryan7473 I did buy the Versys for $5k Australian dollars with 10155kms on the clock Roadworthy and it's a one elderly owner ABS model ..Cannot find another deal like this anywhere..It handles surprisingly good on rough gravel roads with ruts and potholes..very comfortable on the road too..with adequate power...great economy and bulletproof reliability..I'm gonna put more Dual sport tyres on it and a centre stand soon..and do some long trips with riding mates..If you are looking at 650 Adventure bikes..you cant go wrong with a Versys especially if you're on a budget.
@@jayryan7473 Thanks mate..Havent ridden it much yet to fully evaluate it..been working on it more with servicing and cleaning..plus its almost winter time here too so I'm not that keen in the cold either.
U R rockin' a true Verseys 650 Punisher ! (💀 07,08,09 + 06 in the UK) That's all that matters. Kawasaki rocks. (Reliable + Affordable) The Versys rocks. (Awesome Handling) That 650 Engine rocks. (Purrs & Zings) Candy Lime Green rocks. (Sparkles & Shines) It's all good !
You really make a great argument for purchasing this bike. I’m about two months away from taking my course and deciding what will be my first bike. I’m 6’1” and a heavyweight so choices have to be carefully considered. This might be the one.
I am in the same situation. 6’1” but only about 175. I have seen a couple of used ones on various markets here in Hawaii. Not too many options for used bikes on the island. For me it’s probably going to end up being a random 300 or 400cc by the time I can go get one. There’s one available now for $2900.
I've got a 2009 Versys 650. Awesome bike ! I'm 6'2" , 200 lbs. I have the suspension adjusted up high, but my knees are still bent a little too much when riding my bike. Otherwise the Versys is totally awesome !
I met a guy who rode his Versys 650 from Washington state to Florida. He said it’s not that great on the highway but shines everywhere else. Easy to work on too.
I have an 08 and he is right the seat height is for taller guys, I’m 5’8 160 and stock I could only tiptoe one side but with the lowering shackle and stock seat I’m close to flat foot on both sides
I am picking up my versys in 1 day. It is a 2008 650 with 5k miles on it and I paid $2500. It's a one owner and it has been barely used and it is mint. I can't wait. It's red tho and I I don't like red much. I might paint it black and yellow. I love the color of your bike
@Bob Ross who said it would be a crappy repaint? Don't project your laziness onto me. If I paint it I would pay for it be professionally done. Also if I did a crappy repaint and liked it how would the affect you? I hope you got your holier-than-thou fix for today, keep chasing that fleeting happiness.
Awesome video. I've seen like a hundred Versys 650 videos and this covers a lot of good stuff! If you can do without ABS, I think the gen 2 bike is the real ticket in the used market.
Good thing about this bike, you can pick up a 1st or even 2nd gen on the cheap!! So, if you want two bikes, this being one of them, it's pretty affordable to do so.
Awesome video mate. Im here to ask a question, im about to buy this bike and the unic problem i can see is the esthetic of the front light. Do u know any other front light that can match with this bike?? (Sorry for my english, im from the baske country)
I just got the the same bike you have with 4043 miles on it. My wife got it for my birthday. What tires do you run off road? I’ve been riding a KLR. Wondering how the versys will stack up against the KLR in gravel and dirt. Need to get down to 2WoS for a camping trip soon. QUESTION: is the radiator problem you had a common problem on this bike or was it just a fluke? Thanks
Pirelli MT60RS for off-road. It's the OEM tire for the Ducati Scrambler. Radiator thing seemed to be just bad luck, not something other people dealt with too.
Thanks man! I appreciate the support. I get around 45mpg generally. I imagine the exhaust hurts that a bit though, so assume you would get a bit higher.
Can confirm daily cycle works estimate as being slightly lower because of exhaust. I have the exact same bike exact same year as his and get about 55 bone stock
@@Burlehmangus My Versys 650 is the same year and color. 45 MPG is accurate ! ....unless you weigh 100 lbs, ride without luggage, are (contantly) putting down a long open highway without any stops, (constantly) bogging your engine, (constantly) doing 50 mph - 55 mph in 6th gear, then you will never see more than 50 mpg on a Versys 650. If awesome gas mileage at 55 mph is what you want, then maybe you should have just bought a 2022 Grom. Kawasaki's mileage claims and their horsepower claims are "exaggerated estimates". Ride your Versys 650 correctly. Don't bog it down, trying to make it the most efficient commuter, ever. Just ride it and enjoy it, and get about 45 mpg !
Hey, how tall are you? and do all Versys 650 come with ABS? Thinking of getting a ~2008 as my first bike, not crazy about the looks but sounds like a really fun bike.
@@Dailycozwerks Got it, I'm 6.2" I belive (187cm). I noticed that some people mentioned ABS, was curious if it's a standard option, I'm a noob so it will help me 🤣
I don't have links on hand, but both were available on Revilla last I checked. The seat is the low version and the exhaust is the slip on, not the full system.
@@Dailycozwerks actually just picked it up last night & the seat seems low to me. Actually wouldn't mind a little lift tbh lol. Idk or really don't think any mods were done to it but from what I understand and older woman did own it before me.
I have a 2009 Versys 650. (Nice) ! I heard that it really helps having larger (weighted) bar ends, because they are weights that help to stabilize handlebar vibrations. My bike has a set on it. I've ridden it on long trips. My bars seem to work fine. (No major vibrations)
The 1st generation Versys 650 motorcycles all develop a noisy vibration at around 5,000 RPM. It comes from the instrument panel, but it can be easily eliminated by installing a small rubber shim as a wedge at the top of the guage box. I found this to be a quick and easy solution for that vibration noise, and I think that this might be the vibration that so many Versys 650 owners complain about. Otherwise, my handlebars don't vibrate enough to be a problem. Small vibration, just enough to notice that my engine is running. It has never bothered my hands, at all. Compared to a Harley Davidson??? The vibration is NOTHING !
Hey i am in wetumpks Al. i have a 09 blue one with 3700 miles i picked up for 2200 and i love mine. If you are ever this way holler at me and we can go cruising together. Ps i love your video
I too have 09 and it used to be in a rental fleet but where I live it lead a babied life. I bought it with all the goodies on it, Givi hard case bags, heated grips, sw motech engine guards and a leaky fork seal. cost me 4200 canadian so thats 3400 usd, came with 21000 kms or 13000 miles on it. I have since done some mods to it but I really wish it had more power, better fuel range and a longer swing arm for stability when carrying a pillion. What are your impressions when riding 2 up?
I actually don't mind it 2 up. I just dial in a little preload and it's all good. An exhaust and tune can add a bit more power for ya, but of course it will cost you some fuel economy so maybe not the best idea for you in particular.
Rear shock on Versys 650 has a small black dial at the bottom to stiffen the shock. (It's small and hard to notice, but necessary to adjust, for riding 2) . Also need to adjust the stiffness in the forks.
Hey, I am interested in the Versys-X 300 and want to eventually get a Versys 650. I like the X-300 because of its weight to be put on the back of a class C motorhome which I will get when I retire from the military. But do you think the 650 can be carried on the back of a class C motorhome. Also, dude I'm a new rider....well I haven't ridden yet but I am about to start next month. So, I'm a "noob".
Hey hey, if you are talking a hitch style mount I imagine the X-300 may be fine, but with the added almost 100 pounds of the 650 I would suggest that one be towed on a small motorcycle trailer. Hope that helps!
@@Dailycozwerks thanks. I have alot of thinking to do about that. Fortunately I have almost two years before I start that project. But, I love hearing about the Versys 650 capabilities, how-to and diys, and of course your off-roading. How is the riding style off-road compared to on-road?
It is perfect on road. Just as good as any popular naked bike. It's not great off road at all. I get it done, but it definitely wasn't designed for it. The 300 is much better suited.
how are those mirrors? would you change them for style or better view? I am in the market soon to get one I plan to selll my vulcan 500 and getting the versey 650 I live near charlotte lots of twisties to ride.
![[TH] 2024 PMSL SEA W2D2 | Fall | เครื่องร้อน พร้อมลุย](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/JO2_bLow_1Y/mqdefault.jpg)
Every single person I have ever talked to that’s owned a Versys 650 has said the same thing in that it stacks up as one of if not their favourite bike of all time.
Looking at an 09 Versys on Craigslist right now. Your video is very informative and helping me decide on the purchase.
Thanks for watching! Glad it helped!
I just got one for 3200. A little on the higher end but only 6k miles
Thanks for the review! I'm brand new to the scene and never ridden a motorcycle before but your review is helping me make a decision.
My pleasure! Glad you enjoyed. Holler if you have any specific questions.
@@Dailycozwerks Thanks! What is the insurance like on one of those? I'm hoping to buy an older 09 or something close. How much maintenance are you usually doing on your Versys each month and how much average?
Mine is a 2009 so insurance is next to nothing. Something like $150 a year for full coverage. Maintenance has honestly just been oil changes and chain cleanings/adjustments which I do myself so almost no cost there either.
@@Dailycozwerks Thank you! Looks like you have lots of fun with this bike. One day after I take my MSF course and test I'll hopefully by one.
I love my 08, but especially after the major modifications, I built brackets and put hard bags from a Harley Electra glide as to have storage, also Harley handlebars so it feels more like a cruiser, also modified the back frame and lowered the seat level and actually sit on a seat from a China four wheeler which fit perfectly and I can flat foot it no matter what the suspension is set at, a few LED lights all over it, and it is an amazing bike, all the power I need and I have ridden larger bikes. The one thing I love about it, is it is extremely dependable. The only thing that I don't like, is it is a tad windy because of the front fairing designs, of course I have an aftermarket windshield as well so that maybe it, I have ridden it through major thunderstorms with wind gusts of 50 to 60 miles an hour and it was stable, and all around great bike. Thank you for your review you did a great job!
th-cam.com/video/v7fsuygT0ow/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for watching! I appreciate the kind words.
i bought this bike this spring without any research on it. i was set on an er6n, but i found this at a decent price and since i''m a tall guy, i said why not. i love it and i don't feel like i should change it any time soon.now that i search for videos about it, i could't be any happier. everybody says that it's awesome and flexible. big love for versys.
This video sir helped me decide to put a deposit TODAY on a 2010 model black 650 Versys as i was set to get a Vstrom from the start...Im glad i settled for the Versys instead as the Strom doesnt have as good looks in my opinion..but im biased i guess..Cheers bro for the good work..Keep em coming..
Thanks for the support. I hope you love the new bike!
What are your impressions of your Versys, if you followed through with the purchase.
@@jayryan7473 I did buy the Versys for $5k Australian dollars with 10155kms on the clock Roadworthy and it's a one elderly owner ABS model ..Cannot find another deal like this anywhere..It handles surprisingly good on rough gravel roads with ruts and potholes..very comfortable on the road too..with adequate power...great economy and bulletproof reliability..I'm gonna put more Dual sport tyres on it and a centre stand soon..and do some long trips with riding mates..If you are looking at 650 Adventure bikes..you cant go wrong with a Versys especially if you're on a budget.
@@albertsammut433 That's awesome news. I'm glad you're enjoying it!
@@jayryan7473 Thanks mate..Havent ridden it much yet to fully evaluate it..been working on it more with servicing and cleaning..plus its almost winter time here too so I'm not that keen in the cold either.
U R rockin' a true Verseys 650 Punisher !
(💀 07,08,09 + 06 in the UK)
That's all that matters.
Kawasaki rocks.
(Reliable + Affordable)
The Versys rocks.
(Awesome Handling)
That 650 Engine rocks.
(Purrs & Zings)
Candy Lime Green rocks.
(Sparkles & Shines)
It's all good !
You really make a great argument for purchasing this bike. I’m about two months away from taking my course and deciding what will be my first bike. I’m 6’1” and a heavyweight so choices have to be carefully considered. This might be the one.
I really think it's an amazing option. Thanks for watching. I appreciate the support.
I am in the same situation. 6’1” but only about 175. I have seen a couple of used ones on various markets here in Hawaii. Not too many options for used bikes on the island. For me it’s probably going to end up being a random 300 or 400cc by the time I can go get one. There’s one available now for $2900.
I've got a 2009 Versys 650. Awesome bike !
I'm 6'2" , 200 lbs.
I have the suspension adjusted up high, but my knees are still bent a little too much when riding my bike. Otherwise the Versys is totally awesome !
@@intergalacticbasketballdro7186 check out Moto Werks foot peg lowering adapters.
@@intergalacticbasketballdro7186 Peg lowering kit 👍
I met a guy who rode his Versys 650 from Washington state to Florida. He said it’s not that great on the highway but shines everywhere else. Easy to work on too.
My 2009 Versys handles great and it's a blast on the highway ! How could a Versys 650 NOT be great on the highway ? ? ?
Heeey, that’s my neighborhood!!! Very cool!!!
I have an 08 and he is right the seat height is for taller guys, I’m 5’8 160 and stock I could only tiptoe one side but with the lowering shackle and stock seat I’m close to flat foot on both sides
Very informative!
Looking at 08-09’ bikes and this video helps
Thank you man 🍻🍻
Thanks for watching! Glad it helped. Double thanks if you subscribed. I appreciate the support.
Thank you, Alot of people online say this bike is smoother on the road then the Suzuki Vstrom 650.
It definitely is.
I am picking up my versys in 1 day. It is a 2008 650 with 5k miles on it and I paid $2500. It's a one owner and it has been barely used and it is mint. I can't wait. It's red tho and I I don't like red much. I might paint it black and yellow. I love the color of your bike
That is great! I am sure you will love it!
@Bob Ross who said it would be a crappy repaint? Don't project your laziness onto me. If I paint it I would pay for it be professionally done. Also if I did a crappy repaint and liked it how would the affect you? I hope you got your holier-than-thou fix for today, keep chasing that fleeting happiness.
@@redfin382 nah its crappy. I confirmed it
@@ricksanchez7250 oh 5 months later you confirmed the paint that never happened? Cool. Hope you bought yourself some fleeting momentary joy
Awesome video. I've seen like a hundred Versys 650 videos and this covers a lot of good stuff! If you can do without ABS, I think the gen 2 bike is the real ticket in the used market.
Thanks for watching and for the kind words. If you subscribed more Versys content is on the way soonish.
Good thing about this bike, you can pick up a 1st or even 2nd gen on the cheap!!
So, if you want two bikes, this being one of them, it's pretty affordable to do so.
Talk about vibration of any kind anywhere at different speeds.
Awesome video mate. Im here to ask a question, im about to buy this bike and the unic problem i can see is the esthetic of the front light. Do u know any other front light that can match with this bike??
(Sorry for my english, im from the baske country)
Not that I am aware of, sadly. The only thing I have seen is one guy who ditched the entire front assembly and just mounted a Baja Designs light.
I just got the the same bike you have with 4043 miles on it. My wife got it for my birthday. What tires do you run off road? I’ve been riding a KLR. Wondering how the versys will stack up against the KLR in gravel and dirt. Need to get down to 2WoS for a camping trip soon. QUESTION: is the radiator problem you had a common problem on this bike or was it just a fluke? Thanks
Pirelli MT60RS for off-road. It's the OEM tire for the Ducati Scrambler. Radiator thing seemed to be just bad luck, not something other people dealt with too.
Great vid! I'm picking up a '14 Versys this week. Curious, what kind of mpg do you get just bombing around town, etc?
Thanks man! I appreciate the support. I get around 45mpg generally. I imagine the exhaust hurts that a bit though, so assume you would get a bit higher.
Can confirm daily cycle works estimate as being slightly lower because of exhaust. I have the exact same bike exact same year as his and get about 55 bone stock
@@Burlehmangus My Versys 650 is the same year and color.
45 MPG is accurate ! ....unless you weigh 100 lbs, ride without luggage, are (contantly) putting down a long open highway without any stops, (constantly) bogging your engine, (constantly)
doing 50 mph - 55 mph in 6th gear, then you will never see more than 50 mpg on a Versys 650.
If awesome gas mileage at 55 mph is what you want, then maybe you should have just bought a 2022 Grom.
Kawasaki's mileage claims and their horsepower claims are "exaggerated estimates".
Ride your Versys 650 correctly.
Don't bog it down, trying to make it the most efficient commuter, ever.
Just ride it and enjoy it, and get about 45 mpg !
I just bought an 09 green monster myself. I really feel like i got the bike meant for me
I'm in Atlanta looking to buy one thanks for the review
My pleasure! Thanks for watching.
Hey, how tall are you? and do all Versys 650 come with ABS? Thinking of getting a ~2008 as my first bike, not crazy about the looks but sounds like a really fun bike.
I am 5'11". No ABS on my model which I like for riding off-road, but there are some out there that do have it.
@@Dailycozwerks Got it, I'm 6.2" I belive (187cm). I noticed that some people mentioned ABS, was curious if it's a standard option, I'm a noob so it will help me 🤣
I'm interested in both the seat and the exhaust if you have links
I don't have links on hand, but both were available on Revilla last I checked. The seat is the low version and the exhaust is the slip on, not the full system.
@@Dailycozwerks i can look for them. Will listen again. & Know the one is 2 brothers exhaust.
@@Dailycozwerks actually just picked it up last night & the seat seems low to me. Actually wouldn't mind a little lift tbh lol. Idk or really don't think any mods were done to it but from what I understand and older woman did own it before me.
@@Dailycozwerks I'm about 6' with my boots on too btw
do you still own this Versys 650? how does it perform now and any other major hiccups? Thanks
No hiccups all, minus a few flat tires earned by riding around construction zones.
do you still have the bike
Any buzziness through the handle bars ? I heard the 09's and older were prone to vibration
Some, but it's totally manageable. Not enough to make a ride any shorter if that makes sense.
I have a 2009 Versys 650. (Nice) !
I heard that it really helps having larger (weighted) bar ends, because they are weights that help to stabilize handlebar vibrations. My bike has a set on it. I've ridden it on long trips.
My bars seem to work fine.
(No major vibrations)
The 1st generation Versys 650 motorcycles all develop a noisy vibration at around 5,000 RPM. It comes from the instrument panel, but it can be easily eliminated by installing a small rubber shim as a wedge at the top of the guage box.
I found this to be a quick and easy solution for that vibration noise, and I think that this might be the vibration that so many Versys 650 owners complain about.
Otherwise, my handlebars don't vibrate enough to be a problem. Small vibration, just enough to notice that my engine is running.
It has never bothered my hands, at all.
Compared to a Harley Davidson???
The vibration is NOTHING !
Hey i am in wetumpks Al. i have a 09 blue one with 3700 miles i picked up for 2200 and i love mine. If you are ever this way holler at me and we can go cruising together. Ps i love your video
Thanks man! I am glad you are enjoying it!
That's a great deal, I'm looking for something like that.
I found an 09 in Iowa with 5,200 miles for $3,500. I'm not sure if I want that or a Honda NC700.
I too have 09 and it used to be in a rental fleet but where I live it lead a babied life. I bought it with all the goodies on it, Givi hard case bags, heated grips, sw motech engine guards and a leaky fork seal. cost me 4200 canadian so thats 3400 usd, came with 21000 kms or 13000 miles on it. I have since done some mods to it but I really wish it had more power, better fuel range and a longer swing arm for stability when carrying a pillion. What are your impressions when riding 2 up?
I actually don't mind it 2 up. I just dial in a little preload and it's all good. An exhaust and tune can add a bit more power for ya, but of course it will cost you some fuel economy so maybe not the best idea for you in particular.
Rear shock on Versys 650 has a small black dial at the bottom to stiffen the shock.
(It's small and hard to notice, but necessary to adjust, for riding 2) .
Also need to adjust the stiffness in the forks.
One of the best motorcycles ever made
Definitely!
Hey, I am interested in the Versys-X 300 and want to eventually get a Versys 650. I like the X-300 because of its weight to be put on the back of a class C motorhome which I will get when I retire from the military. But do you think the 650 can be carried on the back of a class C motorhome. Also, dude I'm a new rider....well I haven't ridden yet but I am about to start next month. So, I'm a "noob".
Hey hey, if you are talking a hitch style mount I imagine the X-300 may be fine, but with the added almost 100 pounds of the 650 I would suggest that one be towed on a small motorcycle trailer. Hope that helps!
@@Dailycozwerks thanks. I have alot of thinking to do about that. Fortunately I have almost two years before I start that project. But, I love hearing about the Versys 650 capabilities, how-to and diys, and of course your off-roading. How is the riding style off-road compared to on-road?
It is perfect on road. Just as good as any popular naked bike. It's not great off road at all. I get it done, but it definitely wasn't designed for it. The 300 is much better suited.
What year is your bike? What are those grips? they look dope!
Its a 2009. The grips are Pro-Taper pillow tops. Thanks for watching!
how are those mirrors? would you change them for style or better view? I am in the market soon to get one I plan to selll my vulcan 500 and getting the versey 650 I live near charlotte lots of twisties to ride.
My mirrors are aftermarket and I love em. The stock ones are pretty awful. I was just up near Charlotte. Good riding out that way.
ive heard the gen 1 vibrates a ton, wats ur imput?
I don't think so. Feels plenty smooth to me.
I think oil change after 2000 miles a good practice
I got 14 years out of my Honda VTR !
fairing buzz sucks